A revolution is brewing at Aston Martin, and its name is Valkyrie. The hypercar will set a new standard of performance when fully released to the world in 2019 and continue the fine tradition of Aston Martin ‘V’ cars.
The Valkyrie is being co-developed by Aston Martin and Red Bull Racing, with key input from one of Formula 1’s most brilliant minds, Adrian Newey. Aston Martin will also work with some of the best companies in the industry and beyond to ensure the Valkyrie is a force to be reckoned with.
What’s in a name
Originally labelled the AM-RB 001, the Valkyrie takes its name from ancient Norse mythology, the Valkyrie being a group of female figures who choose who may live and who may die in battle.
Aston Martin’s Chief Creative Officer, Marek Reichman, commented on the name: “Aston Martin model names have deep meaning. They need to inspire and excite. The Aston Martin Valkyrie is an incredibly special car that demands an equally remarkable name; an uncompromising car that leaves nothing in reserve. The connotations of power and honour, of being chosen by the Gods, are so evocative, and so pertinent to a car that only a fortunate few will ever experience.”
One for the road, one for the track
Aston Martin and Red Bull Racing are developing two versions of the Valkyrie, one for the road and another solely for track use. The latter will be where Red Bull and Newey’s expertise come into very good use, with this version of the car set to feature even more aggressive aero parts than the road-based Valkyrie, while also ditching some features of the road car that aren’t required on track.
Aston Martin CEO Andy Palmer has commented that the Valkyrie will be “able to to lap the Silverstone circuit as quick or quicker than an F1 or LMP1 car”. Something no doubt everyone would like to see the Valkyrie be capable of.
Meanwhile, Newey has revealed his long-standing desire to create a road car, as well commenting on the excitement of being able to translate F1 technology onto the road.